Author Topic: 2002 Optima vs 2008 Chelsee (Read 5578 times)

linksteve · « **on:** May 29, 2015, 07:55:51 pm »

To all the seasoned spa folks...please bear with me. I'm researching and analyzing the heck out of the process of purchasing our first tub. We live in Maine. I'm about to buy a nice little house and immediately put on a deck with tub. My budget (for now) is around 5K. For that amount I can't really get anything decent in the 7X7, four jet seats with power and reliability. I was looking at Hot Spot Relay/Rythem, but now it looks like they will cost close to 7K. So I'm exploring used options. Here is what I have found (in a limited used market).

1. 2002 Sundance Optima. Used winters only. only used inside. Owned by original owners...older retired couple no longer able to use. Asking 4K. Will offer 3500 to offset moving cost. I hear nothing but good things about Optima design and hardware. A wet test will determine if I'm a pro or con Optima experience.

2. 2008 Sundance Chelsee. Used winter only outdoors. Owned by older couple that is retiring and headed south for winter. Cost is $4K, but owner is motivated and says there is wiggle room. I will offer 3K or 3500 to offset move. I have a buddy who has a 5 year old Chelsee that I will wet test this week.

So...If I enjoy both soaks...what is the most bang for the buck? Optima's quality, but older build features or a newer Chelsee. Keep in mind reliability, efficiency, cost of pump replacement, etc.

Thank you in advance for all your help.

Hot Tub Forum · « **on:** May 29, 2015, 07:55:51 pm »

Dr. Spa� Ret. · « **Reply #1 on:** May 29, 2015, 08:14:38 pm »

I don't know that the 2002 Sundance Optima sold new for much more than $4k

linksteve · « **Reply #2 on:** May 29, 2015, 08:36:25 pm »

Is the used chelsee price in line?

linksteve · « **Reply #3 on:** May 29, 2015, 08:39:25 pm »

What is a 2002 Optima worth?

Here it is: https://maine.craigslist.org/for/5046309925.html

Jacuzzi Jim · « **Reply #4 on:** May 29, 2015, 09:11:55 pm »

I would take that Optima any day of the week, it looks extremely well cared for and is great shape! Guessing new back then was in the 7 to 8000 range. Even if you need new parts it would be worth it. One question would be how is it coming out of there?

linksteve · « **Reply #5 on:** May 29, 2015, 09:18:50 pm »

owner is removing door.

linksteve · « **Reply #6 on:** May 29, 2015, 09:21:47 pm »

Thanks Jim. This process is a bit nerve racking. My gf and I are going to wet test a new optima over the weekend. Given the 10 year difference, will a new Optima provide a similar ride to a 2002?

Jacuzzi Jim · « **Reply #7 on:** May 29, 2015, 09:28:21 pm »

It will be about the same, jets will probably be a bit different but not by much. Another difference might be pump 1 it should be a 2spd instead of a single spd. Have you seen that spa in person? Looks like that picture was taken when it was brand new? Only reason I say that is the suction socks are still there, pretty rare for a 13 Y,old spa. If it does look like that now, go buy it!

linksteve · « **Reply #8 on:** May 29, 2015, 09:34:22 pm »

Roger that. I'll let you know what I find.

TwinCitiesHotSpring · « **Reply #9 on:** May 30, 2015, 12:01:24 pm »

I'd avoid anything in the late 90's to early 2000's from Sundance they had massive leak issues, I worked for a Sundance dealer from like 2002-2004 and I swear I spent 6 months repairing 100's of Sundance leaks from that "era" especially in the foot-well area

linksteve · « **Reply #10 on:** May 30, 2015, 01:35:25 pm »

Thanks Twin Cities. I'm looking at both spas tomorrow. If I pull side cover and shine flashlight in/under tub, will I be able to see evidence of leaking?

Jacuzzi Jim · « **Reply #11 on:** May 30, 2015, 01:41:09 pm »

I worked for a Sundance dealer as well back then. All of those leakers were pre Jacuzzi and also all had wood siding. If I remember right it was a bad glue batch? I didn't think Synthetic siding for Jacuzzi and Sundance didn't happen till 03/04? Cant remember.. If you can open the front up there should be a sticker with the date of mnfg and the serial number..

Dr. Spa� Ret. · « **Reply #12 on:** May 30, 2015, 08:24:56 pm »

The EPA mandated a lower VOC glue, and the first formulas didn't work so well.

Jacuzzi Jim · « **Reply #13 on:** May 30, 2015, 09:44:54 pm »

The EPA is like my vacuum? They both suck! DOH

linksteve · « **Reply #14 on:** May 31, 2015, 05:59:13 pm »

Pulled the trigger on a pristine 08 Chelsee for 3500. Optima was also immaculate. Socks still in place. Stereo perfect. However, the Chelsee jets lined up better on our backs, where optima did not. I really wanted to like the Optima more than I did but after a thorough read test on both tubs the Chelsea won out. Given the good price, new cover and lifter, etc., we couldn't resist. The in tub experience was outstanding. Jets even massaged way low on my back where other tubs could not. Hopefully I'll get it delivered and installed in next 2 weeks. Psyched!

Hot Tub Forum · « **Reply #14 on:** May 31, 2015, 05:59:13 pm »

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